MC Hammer (born Stanley Kirk Burrell on March 30, 1962) is an American MC who was most popular during the late 80s and early 90s as he released a string of hits, labeled by critics such as those at Allmusic as "one of the best-selling rappers of all time". Known for his dramatic rise to and fall from fame and fortune (going from top 40 acclaim to bankruptcy) as well as his trademark 'Hammer Pants' and 'Hammerman' cartoon, he became a preacher in the mid-90s, and he now works as a television show host and CEO.